Interview with charlatan clinic makeup-artist: Jemima K

1.When did you discover your love of makeup?
I’ve always been quite artistic, but never the best painter, the best photographer etc etc. Something about makeup just clicks with me. Ever since I was about 13 – I knew that this was something I wanted.

2.Where do you get your inspiration?
Everywhere! From people’s faces on the street, different collections from my favourite designers. Things like Pinterest and Instagram have made it so much easier to gather information and images; if I’m ever feeling a bit uninspired I jump on one of those platforms and start scrolling.

3.What is your most memorable project you have ever worked on?
WHORE of course! I have had so much fun working with everyone involved, and I have become really passionate about the story behind the play. It is amazing to watch, and be a part of the transformation of the 6 different characters.

4.What is your go to product? The most essential item in your kit?
Probably a really good primer. I will never do a makeup without first properly prepping the skin. My favourite at the moment is a mixture of MAC Strobe Cream and Prep + Prime Natural Radiance.

5.Have you worked on other shows with charlatan clinic before?
Yes – I was involved with the WHORE project from the first show. It has been such a privilege to carry on with this play. Whore has a big future and I would love to continue to be a part of it.

6.Who would you really like to work with – name anyone?
I would love to assist or collaborate with Yolanda Bartram – a VERY talented body painter who runs Body FX. Body painting is a real passion of mine and Yolanda is one of the best.

7.What is the most important lesson you have learnt working with models/talent?
I think that it is really important to understand that you must be willing to step above and beyond your job description. You hold up towels while models are getting changed, you help photographers carry equipment, you spend hours cleaning brushes and stations, you stand in the pouring rain holding up umbrellas, you are a confident with the talent. However these are some of my favourite scenarios, because they make you feel a part of something bigger.

8.Do you have a favourite makeup or skincare brand ?
MAC is definately one of my favourite brands, because they are essentially made for makeup artists. But I do have a secret obsession with brands like Benefit and The Balm – the packaging is to die for!

9.What is your dream location to film/shoot?
Somewhere wild and crazy like.. on top of the Remarkables in winter, or in the middle of a desert.

10.What makes you smile?
Watching someones face as they look at themselves in the mirror after they have had their makeup done (or rather done well). Making people feel beautiful is the most rewarding aspect of what I do.